The DRC and M23 rebels will commence direct peace talks in Luanda, Angola, on March 18. Mediator Angola has facilitated these discussions following the escalation of conflict in eastern Congo. Approximately 7,000 deaths have occurred since January, and nearly 80,000 individuals have fled the country due to violence. The situation poses risks of broader regional conflict amid resource competition.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, are set to engage in direct peace negotiations next week, as announced by Angola, which is mediating the talks. These discussions will commence on March 18 in Luanda, the capital of Angola, following an invitation received by the DRC government.
Angola has previously mediated in the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, which intensified when M23 gained control of significant areas, including the strategic city of Goma in January and the second-largest city, Bukavu, in February. The underlying tensions stem from the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition over DRC’s extensive mineral wealth.
Despite accusations, Rwanda continues to deny supporting the M23 rebel group. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi visited Angola for discussions about the negotiations, with his spokesperson, Tina Salama, confirming the invitation but not detailing DRC’s participation status.
M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa claimed that negotiations were initiated due to the rebels’ actions, calling it the “only civilized option” to tackle the prolonged crisis wherein at least 7,000 lives have been lost since January. Moreover, the UN estimates that nearly 80,000 individuals have fled from the conflict, with 61,000 seeking refuge in neighboring Burundi.
M23 represents one of over 100 armed groups competing for control of valuable resources in eastern Congo, which possesses vast mineral deposits, including coltan, cobalt, copper, and lithium. The presence of troops from neighboring countries, such as South Africa and Uganda, raises concerns about the potential for a large-scale regional conflict reminiscent of the devastating Congo wars of the late 20th century.
In conclusion, the impending direct negotiations between the DRC government and M23 rebels signify a critical juncture in addressing the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. With negotiations starting on March 18, the potential for peace exists, yet regional stability remains precarious due to historical grievances and competition for valuable resources.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
